Swindon to Cardiff train with Great Western Railway

Wed 14 Oct
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Swindon to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct

Cheapest price on 14 Oct

£35

Average ticket price on 14 Oct

£36

Fastest journey on 14 Oct

55 m

Average journey duration on 14 Oct

56 m

Trains on 14 Oct

12

Distance

97 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Swindon to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Swindon to Cardiff will cost around £36 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £35.

Fast trains

On Wed 14 Oct, we found 12 trains from Swindon to Cardiff, including 12 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 97 km distance in an average of 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 55 m .

The slowest trains will take 56 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Great Western RailwayW35418
    14:400h56
    Swindon station (SWI)
    15:36Cardiff Central (CDF)
    £351One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western RailwayW34624
    13:400h57
    Swindon station (SWI)
    14:37Cardiff Central (CDF)
    £351One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western RailwayG14939
    12:121h04
    Swindon station (SWI)
    13:16Cardiff Central (CDF)
    £351One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western RailwayW34622
    13:100h58
    Swindon station (SWI)
    14:08Cardiff Central (CDF)
    £351One-way
    0 changes
  • Great Western RailwayW35417
    12:400h56
    Swindon station (SWI)
    13:36Cardiff Central (CDF)
    £351One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Swindon to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Swindon to Cardiff run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 but you can travel from only £7 by coach.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:26. The fastest train covers the 97 km distance in 54m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £7
Distance
97 km
Average train duration
1h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
£13
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
54m
First train
0:01
Last train
23:26
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
1 day
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £7

Live departures

Swindon to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Swindon to Cardiff trains for today, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Great Western RailwayW35417
Delayed
11:43 12:40Swindon station (SWI)
0h56
13:36 Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayW34622
On time
13:10 Swindon station (SWI)
0h58
14:08 Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayW34624
On time
13:40 Swindon station (SWI)
0h57
14:37 Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayG14940
On time
14:12 Swindon station (SWI)
0h56
15:08 Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayW35418
On time
14:40 Swindon station (SWI)
0h56
15:36 Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayW34629
On time
15:10 Swindon station (SWI)
0h56
16:06 Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayW34630
On time
15:41 Swindon station (SWI)
0h57
16:38 Cardiff Central (CDF)
0 changesdirect
Wednesday 14 October
Great Western RailwayG149338:12 Swindon station (SWI)
0h56
9:08 Cardiff Central (CDF)0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayG149348:42 Swindon station (SWI)
0h55
9:37 Cardiff Central (CDF)0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayG149359:10 Swindon station (SWI)
1h02
10:12 Cardiff Central (CDF)0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayG149369:40 Swindon station (SWI)
0h57
10:37 Cardiff Central (CDF)0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayG1493710:11 Swindon station (SWI)
0h56
11:07 Cardiff Central (CDF)0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayG1493810:42 Swindon station (SWI)
0h58
11:40 Cardiff Central (CDF)0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayG1493912:12 Swindon station (SWI)
1h04
13:16 Cardiff Central (CDF)0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Swindon to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Swindon to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Swindon to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Swindon to Cardiff.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Swindon to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Swindon to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Swindon to Cardiff.

Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Swindon to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Swindon and Cardiff from £7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
54m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£13
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
1h 41m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£15
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£34
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum Cardiff

National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air museum of Welsh life with historic buildings, crafts, gardens and rural traditions relocated to spacious grounds west of the city.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Museum in a Victorian library celebrating Cardiff’s story through interactive displays, local history and a well-presented city timeline.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK city. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transport and casual meals stay fairly manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually small change or rounding up.

Best day trips from Cardiff by train

The most popular day trips by train from Cardiff are Bristol, Bath, Swansea, Newport and Cheltenham. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cardiff on Omio.

A view of Bristol

Day trip from Cardiff to Bristol by train

Why visit Bristol for the day?

Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.

How to get from Cardiff to Bristol by train?

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 39m.

A view of Bath

Day trip from Cardiff to Bath by train

Why visit Bath for the day?

Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.

How to get from Cardiff to Bath by train?

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:13, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 58 km distance in 54m.

A view of Swansea

Day trip from Cardiff to Swansea by train

Why visit Swansea for the day?

Swansea is known for its sweeping bay, maritime past and connection to Dylan Thomas. The city mixes a practical urban centre with a waterfront feel and quick access to the Gower coast.

How to get from Cardiff to Swansea by train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 50m.

A view of Newport

Day trip from Cardiff to Newport by train

Why visit Newport for the day?

Newport is a South Wales city known for its industrial past, the Transporter Bridge and riverside setting on the Usk. Regenerated shopping areas and historic sites give it a practical mix of modern city life and local heritage.

How to get from Cardiff to Newport by train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 17 km distance in 10m.

A view of Cheltenham

Day trip from Cardiff to Cheltenham by train

Why visit Cheltenham for the day?

Cheltenham is a Regency spa town known for elegant architecture, garden squares and a lively festival calendar. It is especially associated with jump racing and the Cheltenham Festival, balanced by a refined town-centre atmosphere.

How to get from Cardiff to Cheltenham by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 89 km distance in 1h 0m.

FAQs: Swindon to Cardiff train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Swindon to Cardiff by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Swindon to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £35.
The train journey from Swindon to Cardiff covers a distance of 97 km and takes approximately 54m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Swindon to Cardiff is 97 km.
The first train from Swindon to Cardiff leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Swindon to Cardiff departs at 23:26.
Trains from Swindon to Cardiff run approximately 9 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Swindon to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train between Swindon and Cardiff. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
There is no night train service from Swindon to Cardiff.
The train station in Swindon that goes to Cardiff is Swindon station (SWI), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
Booking trains from Swindon to Cardiff in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Swindon to Cardiff offers pleasant views, particularly as it passes through the rolling hills and countryside of the Cotswolds and along parts of the River Severn.
Yes, you can take the train from Swindon to Cardiff.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Swindon and Cardiff

Most Swindon to Cardiff trains use the Swindon to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cathays. Use this guide to compare Swindon and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Swindon
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Swindon station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Swindon to Cardiff leave from Swindon. The station is 1 km from Swindon city centre at Swindon station, Station Road, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 1DQ.
SwindonSwindon station, Station Road, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 1DQ+44 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Swindon from Swindon city centre

Bus82, 49 · 6m · £4 · every ~6 min

Swindon train station facilities and services

Swindon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Swindon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Swindon. ATMs are available at Swindon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Swindon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Swindon: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Swindon: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Swindon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via subway and the lifts via the main entrance subway, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

More options for your journey from Swindon to Cardiff

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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